Three Benefits Of Using A Doula
Childbirth is a huge milestone in a woman's life. Labor and delivery is an arduous process that can take all of a woman's strength, stamina, and courage. Having the right support during the birthing process can be a huge relief. Doulas are professionals who exist to provide support to laboring women during birth. Here are three benefits of using a doula.
1. Have a calm presence by your side.
It's very important that mothers stay calm during birth. Panic and stress can elevate your cortisol levels, which can actually impede your body's natural processes, stalling the birth. Friends and family members may be well-meaning, but it's common for them to be nervous and anxious too. A doula will be by your side in labor. Doulas have assisted many women with their births, so nothing will shock them. A doula will provide a calm, soothing presence throughout your labor and delivery.
2. Allow the doctors to do their job.
Whether you give birth in a hospital or a designated birth center, you will have medical professionals attending to you. Doctors will check your vital signs, administer medication as necessary, and stand by in case intervention is needed. The doctors attending your birth will be busy with the medical aspects of your care. A doula can attend to your personal and emotional needs and fetch you water and snacks, leaving the doctors and nurses free to attend to your medical needs.
3. Make sure your requests are honored.
Many mothers go into the delivery room with a birth plan that specifies their wishes. Your birth plan will include details about the people you'd like present for your birth. It can also include a list of people you want barred from the room. Your desires for a medicated or unmedicated birth with also be spelled out in your birth plan. In the hustle and bustle of delivery, some women feel their voices are not heard. Your doula is there to be your advocate. They will make sure your requests are honored whenever it's medically safe to do so.
If you'd like to work with a doula, contact a doula program to inquire about their services. Having a doula at your side throughout your labor and delivery can take a weight off your mind. You can relax into the process of childbirth, knowing there's someone there to encourage you and ensure your wishes are respected.
To learn more, contact a resource that offers doula program services.
